updated 04:09 pm EST, Fri January 18, 2013

Personalization options, Home and Away audio feeds in app

Microsoft has added an app that covers hockey matches to Xbox Live, joining existing sporting apps from ESPN, the NBA and others. The NHL GameCenter service will provide subscribers the option to watch hockey live and on-demand in HD, as well as the ability to personalize the service for statistic tracking, and a number of on-demand classic games from the history of the sport.

HD video feeds of games will have options to choose between Home or Away audio commentary, while the NHL VideoCenter will provide footage of on-ice and off-ice events, as well as recaps of the best goals and saves from the league. Full-length game archives are available to view after the matches for this and the previous season, and a condensed replay will offer a shorter version of events. Split-screen viewing is also available for watching two games at once.

Up to five teams can be followed through the app, including live stat updates as games progresses, and a Mini guide at the bottom of the screen will show details of other matches for easier game switching. The NHL Vault also provides access to over 800 classic games, including Stanley Cup Playoffs and some dating back to the 1960s.

NHL GameCenter access is $50 for the 2012-2013 season, and will be available in a large number of countries as well as the US and Canada. It will not be available in Nordic markets due to an existing digital broadcasting agreement with Viasat.